This genus of orchids are terrestrial, lithophytic or occasionally epiphytic and a lack a pseudo-bulb but have a short stem. They have dark green strap-like leaves and the slipper-like flowers appear solitary or in a cluster on a slender stem in spring or autumn.

Hardiness zones 10 to 12

Paphiopedilum species are widely distributed from China to the Himalayas and throughout south-east Asia, Indonesia and extending to New Guinea.

They prefer a semi-shaded, wind protected humid position and grow in a mixture of chopped sphagnum, leaf mould with additional fibrous loam or gritty river sand and are frost and drought tender.


The Slipper Orchids are grown for their beautiful flowers and are planted in tropical gardens or in the understory along borders. They are commonly grown in pots under glass and are suitable for coastal or low mountain regions. These orchids will establish in 3 to 5 years and are moderately long lived. There are many cultivars and hybrids available, please contact your local nursery for varieties. ID 695

Note:
These orchids have no thickened storage structures such as pseudobulbs therefore they must be kept moist at all times but the soil must not be allowed to become sodden. Good drainage and ample light is required for flower production and the plants grow well under glass in temperate climates preferring cooler conditions.

Paphiopedilum(pă-fee-ô-PE-di-lum) species

Orchidaceae (or-kid-AY-see-ee)
Orchid Family